Hello All...I am Karen and I am new,

I am going in on Feb. 25th for sugery. I have gone through many posts on this forum to help me understand what it is going to be like. I think I will be able to handle the starving feeling...hey, I have dieted so many times, I am used to that feeling;) And doing the pre-op shakes, I think I am prepared for that feeling.

My question is....how bad is the pain afterwards? I have never had surgery and I am petrified of how I am going to feel afterwards. My surgeon said I can be back at work in 6 days (wed. surgery, work on MOnday). I also have theatre tickets on day 5, and I am hoping that I can drive & sit in a theatre without being in pain?

Tell me your stories of how long you were up & at it!

Recovery is a little different for everyone. On day 5 I don't think I would've felt like sitting through a show, but you may be fine. Just make sure someone else drives and bring your pain meds. I felt like a human again after 1 week.

Hi Karen. Congratulations on your upcoming surgery!!The pain is not too bad - well, it wasn't for me. I had trouble with the pain meds - gave me headaches, so I quit taking them on the third day. I was driving by day 5 because I wasn't on meds - if you are taking them, I agree, someone else should drive you. Sitting in a theater seat shouldn't be bad... kinda like sitting at home only you will have something to take your mind off of your pain. I felt good by day 7 and really good by day 10.... but.... remember.... everyone is different. Good luck to you!!! Take care. Becky

Congrats and good luck on your surgery. My pain was when I was getting up out of bed or a chair. Be sure to get a small pillow and hold against your stomach when getting up or out of bed for a few days. I went back to work on day 10, glad I took the extra 3 days. that is about the only pain I have had. Don't worry too much about it.